Crozes-Hermitage Les Varonniers Chapoutier 1996

Lot presentation

Crozes-Hermitage Les Varonniers Chapoutier 1996

The wine

Long-occupied by orchards or unfarmed wasteland, the Crozes-Hermitage appellation was born in 1952, somewhat in the shadow of its "big sister" Hermitage. Today, Crozes-Hermitage wines have established their own identity.
For this vintage, Michel Chapoutier combines his oldest Syrah vines in Crozes-Hermitage (60 years old, on average). The harvest is done by hand at maturity. It is vinified in small closed concrete tanks and only the free-run wine is kept. This nectar is then aged in oak barrels for 14-18 months.
Les Varonniers exudes aromas of very ripe red fruits and liquorice. The palate unfurls a certain power and fine density, candied and slightly vanilla notes thanks to the ageing. The length is impressive. This wine could easily be kept for over 30 years and sometimes even 75 years depending on the vintage. For food pairing, it will elevate your favourite meat dishes.

About the Producer Chapoutier

Maison Chapoutier is without doubt one of the most prestigious names in the Rhône producing some of the finest Hermitage. The domain converted its 300 hectares of vines to biodynamic viticulture, making it the largest vineyard to adopt this method of cultivation. It has held certification since 1999. Chapoutier is often one of the last estates to harvest its grapes so that they are at optimal ripeness.The Chapoutier savoir faire has spread to other vineyards in other winemaking regions: Provence, Beaujolais, Roussillon, Champagne, Alsace, Portugal but also South Australia.
This family's winemaking journey started way back in 1806 but 1879 was a turning point when Polydor Chapoutier bought a few hectares of vines and started a negociant business. Seven generations have succeeded him, and Michel Chapoutier is currently at the helm, supported by his children Mathilde and Maxime. Together, they continue the family's story, all while highlighting Rhône's great terroirs.